Tokyo Olympics’ marathon test event flagged off in Sapporo


Tokyo Olympics’ marathon test event flagged off in Sapporo

Tokyo Olympics

The Tokyo Olympics is less than three months away and preparations are in full swing by the organizers as they aim to conduct a hassle-free Games. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the games’ postponement from 2020 to 2021 and despite the various hurdles including the rapidly rising costs, the organizers have done a commendable job so far of ensuring that there is no further obstacle ahead of the scheduled date.

Tokyo, Osaka and a lot of other areas came under a state of emergency last week which was the third such state. The death toll has already passed 10,000 and the pandemic is still lurking at large. However, with strict regulations and protocols, the Games should be able to be conducted.

Tokyo 2020 President Seiko Hashimoto on Marathon Test Event

Seiko Hashimoto
Seiko Hashimoto

Today, the Tokyo Olympic Marathon Test Event was flagged off in Sapporo where athletes ran the same course that would be used for the Olympics. Overseas athletes also took part in the event. The course was made in such a way that there was no contact with the general public. Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto stated that the test event would act as an example that with proper protocols, safe conduct of the games will be ensured.

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Meanwhile, Yasua Mori, the deputy executive director of Tokyo 2020’s operation bureau talks of concerns of the public and said, “We are fully aware (Sapporo) residents feel uneasy with the current situation, and we are carrying out various steps as we want to prepare for an event where people can feel even a little bit more at ease.”

The Tokyo Games begin on the 23rd of July.

Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Updated Playbook rules suggest daily testing and a 14 day quarantine period for athletes